Definition

Sarcoidosis is a disease that causes inflammation in organs throughout the body. It forms small round spots, called granulomas, in various organs or tissue. The most common locations are the lungs and lymph nodes. The spots can make it difficult for the organs to work normally.

Causes

Inflammation is a normal part of how the body acts toward an infection or injury. However, the inflammation should pass once the area has healed. With sarcoidosis the inflammation does not pass. The cells that cause the inflammation stay and cause granulomas. It is not clear why this happens. An infection or exposure to a toxin in the environment may trigger the change.

Risk Factors

Sarcoidosis is more common in females and at ages 20 to 40 years old. Factors that may increase the chance of sarcoidosis include:

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done including listening to the heart and lungs and checking lymph nodes. Tests that may help find sarcoidosis signs or rule out other causes include:

Chest x-rays—can show sarcoidosis spots in the lungs or swollen lymph nodes

Biopsy—to look for granulomas or signs of other conditions such as infections

There is no specific test that confirms sarcoidosis. Instead, diagnosis is based on:

Treatment

Not all sarcoidosis needs to be treated. Many will only have minor symptoms and the sarcoidosis will pass on its own. The doctor will monitor for any changes including regular eye exams and lung tests.

Treatment may be needed to ease more serious symptoms. It can also help to decrease the chance of permanent problems. Treatment may include:

Medical Care

Medication may help to manage the inflammation and decrease damage. Options include:

Steroids to decrease inflammation

Topical steroids to treat rashes

Methotrexate,
azathioprine, or anti-tumor necrosis
factor biologics for those who do not respond to steroids

Prevention

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.